Necrotizing fasciitis is commonly caused by Group A strep (Streptococcus pyogenes) bacteria which also causes strep throat. It can also be caused by other bacteria or a mixture of bacteria. Most of the time, bacteria enter the body through an opening in the skin which can be as small as a paper cut or a pin prick. It can also enter through a bruise, blister, or abrasion or following a major trauma or surgery. In some cases, there doesn't appear to be a source of entry. The bacteria destroys soft tissue at the subcutaneous level and can also cause toxic shock syndrome, both are deadly alone, and together they are even more so.
Patients with necrotizing fasciitis are not usually contagious, and fomites are not typically points of transmission.
Group A hemolytic streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus, alone or together, are normally the initial infecting bacteria in necrotizing fasciitis. However, other aerobic and anaerobic pathogens such as Bacteroides, Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Klebsiella may be present.
Patients with necrotizing fasciitis are not usually contagious, and fomites are not typically points of transmission.
Group A hemolytic streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus, alone or together, are normally the initial infecting bacteria in necrotizing fasciitis. However, other aerobic and anaerobic pathogens such as Bacteroides, Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Klebsiella may be present.
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